The best walks and hikes around Atlantic Highlands

The Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop takes you on an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hike through the scenic Hartshorne Woods Park, offering a delightful mix of dense forests and open vistas. You'll wander beneath towering tulip, beech, and oak trees, with occasional glimpses of the Navesink River and the Atlantic Ocean. The path is well-maintained, providing a pleasant experience for a roughly 1 hour and 55 minutes outing with 304 feet (93 metres) of elevation gain.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive at Hartshorne Woods Park in the morning, especially on busy days, to ensure a convenient parking spot. The trail is accessible throughout the year, with summer offering lush greenery and wildflowers, while the cooler months provide crisp air and clear views. No special permits are needed for this enjoyable loop, making it a straightforward choice for a spontaneous adventure.

Beyond the natural beauty, this loop offers a fascinating historical context, as the Rocky Point area was a strategic coastal defense location during World War II. You'll encounter remnants of WWII gun batteries and ammunition bunkers, like Battery Lewis, scattered along the route. These historical features, combined with the diverse views and varied terrain, make this an engaging and memorable hike within Monmouth County.

The Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience through the lush, hilly woodlands of Hartshorne Woods County Park. You'll traverse varied terrain, from shaded forest paths to sections with noticeable elevation changes, providing a good physical challenge. Keep an eye out for picturesque views of the Navesink River and the Atlantic Ocean from various overlooks, including the popular Lower Rocky Point area.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.9 km) route, with 440 feet (134 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 25 minutes. While the overall loop is manageable, be ready for some steep grades on the individual Rocky Point and Grand Tour trails. Parking is generally available at the Hartshorne Woods Park entrance, but arriving early is advisable on busy days.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is rich in history, passing by remnants of World War II gun batteries and ammunition bunkers. The Rocky Point area, one of the highest points on the East Coast, played a strategic role in coastal defense. This makes the Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop a compelling choice for those interested in both scenic hiking and historical exploration.

The Henry Hudson Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, tracing a former railroad right-of-way through Monmouth County, New Jersey. You'll find yourself wandering through tree-lined paths, past wetlands, and along the Bayshore Shoreline, where views of Sandy Hook Bay open up. The trail's flat terrain and diverse scenery, including glimpses of the New York City skyline from certain points, make it a rewarding experience for a casual outing.

This accessible route is perfect for a quick, easy hike, covering 2.6 miles (4.3 km) with a minimal 92 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete. It's a family-friendly and dog-friendly option, though you should be mindful of frequent road crossings. Parking is available at various points along the trail, making it easy to hop on and off.

As a significant rail-trail, the Henry Hudson Trail showcases a blend of natural environments, from coastal wetlands to open fields, and even remnants of its railroad past. It's part of the well-maintained Monmouth County Park System, offering a chance to spot local wildlife like white-tailed deer. The trail's historical connection to Henry Hudson and its role in the National Rails-to-Trails Network add to its unique charm.

The Laurel Ridge and Grand Tour Loop in Hartshorne Woods Park offers a dynamic hiking experience, winding through dense forests rich with mountain laurel and American holly. You'll navigate varied terrain, including steep and rocky sections, while enjoying rewarding views of the Navesink River, Sandy Hook Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. This moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) loop, with its 495 feet (151 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes to complete, providing a good workout.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park features a well-marked trail system with multiple trailheads. The trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option if you're bringing your canine companion. For the most picturesque experience, consider hiking in the spring when the mountain laurel blooms, or in the fall to witness the vibrant autumn foliage.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers a unique historical dimension with the presence of World War II concrete bunkers along the route. This blend of scenic vistas, challenging terrain, and historical landmarks makes the Laurel Ridge and Grand Tour Loop a notable option within Monmouth County's extensive trail network, perfect for those seeking more than just a walk in the woods.